Biblical Reference: The account of Lazarus being raised from the dead is found in the Gospel of John, specifically in John 11:1-44. This miraculous event is one of the most significant signs performed by Jesus, demonstrating His power over life and death and foreshadowing His own resurrection.

Context and Background: Lazarus, along with his sisters Mary and Martha, resided in the village of Bethany, located near Jerusalem. The family was known to be close friends of Jesus, as indicated by the Gospel narrative. The event takes place during Jesus' ministry, shortly before His final entry into Jerusalem.

Narrative Summary: The account begins with Lazarus falling seriously ill. His sisters send word to Jesus, saying, "Lord, the one You love is sick" (John 11:3). Despite the urgency, Jesus deliberately delays His visit, stating, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it" (John 11:4).

After two days, Jesus decides to return to Judea, despite the disciples' concerns about the hostility He faced there. Jesus explains to them, "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up" (John 11:11). The disciples misunderstand, thinking Lazarus is merely resting, prompting Jesus to clarify, "Lazarus is dead, and for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe" (John 11:14-15).

Upon His arrival in Bethany, Jesus is met by Martha, who expresses her faith in Him, saying, "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that God will give You whatever You ask of Him" (John 11:21-22). Jesus assures her, "Your brother will rise again" (John 11:23), and declares, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies" (John 11:25).

Mary, along with other mourners, also meets Jesus, and He is deeply moved by their grief. Jesus asks to be taken to Lazarus' tomb, where He weeps, showing His compassion and humanity. At the tomb, Jesus commands the stone to be removed and prays to the Father, thanking Him for hearing His prayer. He then calls out in a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" (John 11:43). Lazarus emerges from the tomb, still wrapped in burial cloths, and Jesus instructs those present to "Unbind him and let him go" (John 11:44).

Theological Significance: The raising of Lazarus is a profound demonstration of Jesus' divine authority and His identity as the Son of God. It serves as a powerful testament to His claim, "I am the resurrection and the life" (John 11:25), affirming that He holds power over death itself. This miracle not only prefigures Jesus' own resurrection but also offers a glimpse of the future resurrection promised to all believers.

Impact and Reaction: The miracle of Lazarus' resurrection had a significant impact on those who witnessed it. Many Jews who were present believed in Jesus as a result (John 11:45). However, it also intensified the opposition from the religious leaders, who saw Jesus as a threat to their authority and began plotting His death (John 11:53).

Cultural and Historical Insights: The Jewish customs surrounding death and burial provide important context for this narrative. Lazarus had been in the tomb for four days, a detail that underscores the miraculous nature of his revival, as decomposition would have been expected to begin. The presence of mourners and the communal aspect of grieving reflect the cultural practices of the time.

Conclusion: The raising of Lazarus is a pivotal event in the Gospel of John, encapsulating the themes of faith, divine power, and the promise of eternal life. It challenges believers to trust in Jesus' sovereignty and to find hope in His victory over death.